Earlier today I had a chance to talk to one of the Isles heart-and-soul kids, Matt Martin. He currently leads the league in hits with 97 and played on a line with Nino Niederreiter and Marty Reasoner last night in Buffalo. When Niederreiter laid into the Sabres’ Nathan Gerbe, Martin was right there to step in and protect the youngest player on the team (video in the post-game report).

No news to report today, as the Islanders had an optional skate at the Coliseum after flying back late last night from the game in Buffalo. Martin, Niederreiter and Travis Hamonic were among those skating. No updates on Andy MacDonald’s status, expect to hear that from Capuano tomorrow.